KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Radial tyres are more suited for daily use.
- Non radial tyres come with a stiffer sidewall for load-bearing purposes.
- Non-radial tyres have been around for longer than radial tyres.
- Radial tyres are also known for offering better fuel efficiency.
Tyres are one of the most essential components on our vehicles, helping us move from one place to another effectively. Therefore, it is essential that we learn about them more deeply, and understand the different types of tyres that we ride on.
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Radial Vs Non-Radial Tyres; How They Are Made
With terms like radial tyres and cross-ply tyres thrown around by many people, it is important to understand the meaning behind these terms. Let's begin with radial tyres. These tyres make use of a series of steel cords laid at 90-degrees to the direction of travel bead-to-bead. The series of cords gives the tyre its strength and shape. Next, steel belts are added into the tread of the tyre, which help it maintain a consistent patch of contact.
In comparison, non-radial tyres make use of rubber-coated ply cords made out of nylon, with successive plies laid out in a criss-cross pattern at the tread. The additional layers help these tyres give some stability, while also providing a stiffer sidewall.
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Radial Vs Non-Radial Tyres; The Differences
Radial tyres have a flexible sidewall, which gives them a smoother ride. Not only can these tyres absorb bumps and road imperfections effectively, they also aid in better traction. Their construction also reduces rolling resistance, which also aids in fuel efficiency, and disperses heat more effectively, thereby reducing wear and tear on the tyre itself.
On the other hand, the construction of non-radial tyres makes them sturdier than radial tyres. The stiff sidewalls offer great support under heavy weight, which makes them suited for commercial purposes. Non-radial tyres also offer better resistance against cuts and punctures, which makes them an ideal choice if you go off-roading frequently.
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Verdict
There really is no correct answer when it comes to choosing between radial and non-radial tyres. It all comes down to your driving conditions and your needs. If you encounter normal city/highway conditions, you will often find radial tyres on your vehicles, while non-radial tyres will be found more commonly on those vehicles that either encounter off-road conditions or they carry heavy loads more frequently.
